Bugsy Malone, Groundlings Theatre Company, Ferneham Hall, Fareham.
Set in prohibition New York City, the musical comedy Bugsy Malone features a huge cast of talented young actors, singers and dancers, who delighted an enthusiastic audience at Ferneham Hall.
Despite the occasional and minor first-night problem, the show captures the menacing gangland atmosphere with zest, humour and panache.
The ingenious swivelling and split-level stage sets enable dramatic and rapid scene changes to be made, although movement should be ideally electronically-driven or by invisible stagehands - not by extremely visible scene-shifters!
Costumes are colourful and eye-catching, props and lighting help the ambience and the lively song and dance numbers provide contrast to the dark and violent moments.
The band, led by musical director Marc Harry on excellent keyboards, supplies both punchy and sensitive arrangements, particularly on the well-sung ballad Ordinary Fool and the strong, feel-good finale You Give a Little Love.
An extremely enjoyable show for all ages. Runs until Saturday November 2.
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